Two Croatian food products gain protected status

Two traditional Croatian food products, Banski chestnut honey and Čepin cabbage, have received European Union protected designation of origin (PDO) status, bringing the country’s total number of EU-protected agricultural and food products to 54.

Croatia now has 54 products registered at EU level under one of three quality schemes: Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) or Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG).

Croatia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, David Vlajčić, welcomed the latest registrations and said Slavonian ham was expected to join the list in the near future.

“These products are backed by our hard-working farmers and beekeepers, and traditions preserved across generations. Croatia now has 54 products protected at EU level, and soon we will add Slavonian ham to the list,” Vlajčić said.

Banski chestnut honey from Banovina

Banski chestnut honey is associated with the Banovina region of central Croatia and is produced from the nectar of sweet chestnut blossoms.

It is recognised for its distinctive sensory characteristics, including an amber colour, an intense chestnut blossom aroma and a pronounced bitterness.

The application for EU protection was submitted by the Petrinja Beekeeping Association, which sought to preserve the product’s authenticity, strengthen recognition of local production and promote Banovina’s beekeeping tradition.

The PDO designation links the product’s identity and reputation to its geographical origin.

Čepin cabbage and its local tradition

Čepin cabbage has also received PDO recognition, highlighting its distinctive qualities and importance to local agricultural production.

The application was submitted by ČEPINAC, the association representing producers of Čepin cabbage, a recognised local variety of white cabbage.

The cabbage is known for its pronounced aroma, a slightly sweet and bitter flavour, and a fine texture that is crisp yet tender.

Its production is based on a traditional local variety that was officially recognised in 2016. All stages of cultivation are tied to a defined geographical area, preserving the connection between the cabbage, its origin and the traditions of local growers.

Vlajčić congratulated the producers involved in securing the designations, adding that Croatian products deserved protection and promotion.

EU quality schemes are designed to protect the names of products associated with particular geographical areas or traditional production methods. Registration helps distinguish authentic products from imitations and supports their recognition in European and international markets.

Under the PDO scheme, the product’s quality or characteristics must be essentially or exclusively linked to its geographical environment, with all production stages taking place in the defined area.

Croatia’s latest registrations add to the country’s portfolio of recognised regional foods and agricultural products.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries publishes a catalogue of Croatian products protected under EU quality schemes on its official website.